The New Orleans Saints have become the center of attention with big talks of wide receiver Brandin Cooks being traded. It seems to be that the driving force behind this is the wide receiver out of Oregon State according to Matt Miller of Bleacher Report.
The two major targets according to major sports news sites are the Titans and the Eagles. However, the only way that this trade will happen is if it’s for something significant according to head coach Sean Payton.
“I wouldn’t say he’s on the trade block, but certainly when a team calls a team that’s looking for a receiver and we’re looking to improve our defense we’re always listening.” Payton said to John DeShazier of NewOrleansSaints.com,” I know Mickey has probably spoken to a handful of GMs or other presidents. Right now we’re comfortable with him in a Saints uniform and we think the world of him and his skill set. It would have to be for something real significant.”
Based off of this statement from the longtime head coach, the goal is to either get the Titans number five pick or the Eagles number 15 pick. The biggest issue is that the Saints might have to give up more than Cooks to pull this off.
While both teams would need a wide receiver like Cooks who can perform well under numerous systems with his natural speed, his height would be an issue for teams wanting to trade just for him. Worst case scenario, they would give up their 11th pick in this year’s draft and perhaps in 2018 to get rid of the receiver going into his fourth year in the league.
The biggest issue though is that the Saints would be going against what was said by Payton as this would probably cost them more than they are willing to give up. The ideal thing for the Saints would probably be Cooks and a second round pick for the Eagles 2nd rounder at 43, basically switching spots.
This is a situation you will have to keep an eye on as the games begin on March 9th when teams can officially begin trading.